Yellow warning issued in Cyprus due to thunderstorms, hail and winds of up to Beaufort force 8

The Cyprus Department of Meteorology has issued a yellow warning due to severe thunderstorms. It will be in effect from 21:00 on Thursday, 17 September, until 17:00 on Friday, 18 September. In thunderstorm areas, rainfall intensity may reach 35–55 mm per hour, with hail expected in some places and wind gusts of up to Beaufort force 8, or around 62 km/h.

The bad weather will first hit the western half of the island before spreading to the remaining areas. The cause is an atmospheric disturbance west of Cyprus, bringing organised bands of rain and thunderstorms.

On the evening of 17 September, residents received a message from the CY-Alert emergency warning system. It said that the bad weather would initially affect the western half of Cyprus, then the remaining areas, and would continue until the second half of Friday.

Civil Defence moved to a state of heightened readiness and reminded residents what to do during heavy rainfall. The department advises clearing drains in advance, preparing sandbags, avoiding work in basement areas during heavy rain, and not crossing flooded roads either on foot or by car. Due to the wind, people are advised to secure outdoor items and signs and close windows and doors, while employers are urged to suspend outdoor work.

On Thursday evening, a canopy collapsed on Archbishop Kyprianou Street in Strovolos, the municipality reported. Police arrived at the scene, and drivers and pedestrians were urged to be especially cautious, follow police instructions and avoid the area where possible.

According to the forecast, temperatures will fall to 18 °C in inland areas and 14 °C in the mountains overnight. On Friday afternoon, temperatures in the interior of the island are expected to reach around 30 °C, while rain and thunderstorms will weaken by evening. From Saturday, forecasters are expecting predominantly clear weather with no hazardous conditions.